Death Valley in February: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Best window · VisitWhen score 64/100 · #2 of 12 months
February is one of the best months of the year to visit Death Valley National Park: crowds run 73% of the March peak (118,305 average visits), days average 74°F with 10.9 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in February
Death Valley averages 118,305 recreation visits in February — 73% of what March, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — book early and start days at dawn.
Weather & daylight
Days are pleasant (highs average 74°F), and nights stay mild (lows average 49°F). It is typically dry (0.5″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 10.9 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station DEATH VALLEY NP, CA US (1 mi from park coordinates, -194 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of February.
What to pack for Death Valley in February
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
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Also at their best in February
Other parks whose computed February verdict is a best window — same NPS × NOAA formula:
- Zion in February — 25% of peak crowds, highs 58°F, score 80/100
- Shenandoah in February — 9% of peak crowds, highs 47°F, score 77/100
- Capitol Reef in February — 10% of peak crowds, highs 47°F, score 76/100
- Carlsbad Caverns in February — 39% of peak crowds, highs 61°F, score 76/100
Common questions
Is Death Valley crowded in February?
Yes — February runs 73% of Death Valley's peak, averaging 118,305 recreation visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Death Valley in February?
Average highs of 74°F, lows of 49°F, 0.5″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, DEATH VALLEY NP, CA US station).
What should I pack for Death Valley in February?
Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in February · Last verified 2026-09-12